• This is your first children’s book?
Yes! And it is such a thrill to see it in print! I have been interested in writing for children for a couple of decades and I have a file drawer full of manuscripts (and rejection letters ) to prove it. I joined the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) in 2004 and in 2007 I submitted Belle for a manuscript review at my regional conference. The author who reviewed the book was so enthusiastic; she kept me from getting discouraged in my hunt to find the right publisher. The Editor-in-Chief at the National Gallery also loved the book when I showed it to her, but sadly, we don’t have a children’s book publishing program at the National Gallery. Ultimately, though, it was she who put me in touch with Bunker Hill Publishing.
• What or who inspired you to write Belle?
The short answer is – my daughter! I used to bring her down to the National Gallery for the wonderful family programs offered by our education department, but I also wanted her to enjoy a simple walk through the galleries with me. I searched for a book based on the Gallery’s collection with the thought it would help spark her interest in doing that, but I quickly discovered the kind of book I had in mind didn’t exist! I wanted a fun-to-read, fictional story that featured a variety of paintings from the National Gallery’s great collection and focused on the magic of the museum and the ‘art experience.’ So when I couldn’t find that book, I decided I’d better write it!
• You obviously are someone who loves art. Can you tell us how you chose your paintings for Belle?
• Is there something else you are currently working on?
I would love to make Belle into a series, so I am currently working on a manuscript that takes her on a journey to another museum. Art travels all the time for touring exhibitions – the perfect set up for another adventure!
I am also working on a manuscript that features the art of the National Gallery’s wonderful outdoor sculpture garden. This book would have completely different characters, and I am envisioning it for a younger audience (ages 4 to 8 years).
Nas Dean says
Loved the trailer and the interview. Awesome book! Thank you for sharing!
Artful Flitter says
I thought the same thing, Jemi – about being a "(butter)fly on the wall" for 300 years! From the 17th c. artist's studio to a 21st c. museum – now THAT's a journey! And thank you so much, Jess, for sharing the book with your art teacher friend! I have been getting great responses from teachers – we already have a "Belle tour" scheduled for a 3rd grade class coming to the National Gallery in January! Can't wait!
Fairday Morrow says
What a beautiful book and a wonderful trailer! I think the cover and title of this book are perfect and the trailer is just a treat. I love how it spotlights artwork and a museum. One of my good friends is an elementary art teacher and I am going to share this with her right now! Thanks for sharing!
~Jess
http://thesecretdmsfilesoffairdaymorrow.blogpsot.com
Theresa Milstein says
Thanks for introducing me to Mary and her book, Belle. I love butterfly books.
Jemi Fraser says
Beautiful! And the story behind it is wonderful – I wonder what that butterfly has seen as well 🙂
M Pax says
A very gorgeous cover. Congrats to Belle on this release.
Artful Flitter says
Thank you all for your very kind words! Belle was such a labor of love for me, and I was so lucky to have Phyllis Saroff provide such wonderful illustrations to bring the story to life! Great paintings combined with beautiful illustrations – how could it go wrong! 🙂 Thank you all again!
Barbara Fisher March House Books says
What a beautiful book, loved the trailer and the interview.
LynNerdKelley says
The book sounds charming and will fill a niche. I love the concept and telling it through the butterflies! And that trailer is delightful. Good luck with Belle and your books to come, Mary.
Nice interview, Lee!
Kelly Hashway says
Great interview, and I love the idea of using paintings in the story. Very original.
Carrie Butler says
It was nice to see an Ohioan featured! 🙂 Great interview!
Elizabeth Prats says
Aw this really does look just lovely 🙂 I loved the trailer!
Kelly Polark says
Lovely, lovely, lovely.
I love that a walk through an art museum with her child sparked the idea!
Empty Nest Insider says
I enjoyed your interview on Bay Sunday! Mary Lee's book trailer is lovely, and I also enjoyed her interview! Thanks for visiting and following me, and I look forward to getting to know you! Julie
Marcia says
Oh, my, that is gorgeous. 🙂
C. Lee McKenzie says
I've ordered Belle and look forward to enjoying it over the holiday. Great to have you here at the Write Game. Here's to more lovely books from you in the future.
Artful Flitter says
Thank you so much for having me Lee. I always love reading your beautiful blog,so it's a real honor to be here! Mary Lee